Lived Experiences of Women Academicians’ Research Productivity in Higher Education of Azad Jammu and Kashmir

Abstract This article examined the lived experiences of women academicians’ research productivity in higher education of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). We aimed to know about the lived experiences of women academicians about their research productivity while working in coeducation universities. We employed qualitative research design in the same fashion as used by the feminists for analysis of lived experiences of women academicians across the world. We designed an interview guide using purposive sampling technique. We collected data from 32 women academicians from four public sector universities of AJK. We analyzed the data through thematic analysis. Thus, we conclude that women academicians’ low research productivity is due to many factors. These barriers include barriers of academic and nonacademic workload, lack of mentoring and networking services, obstacles from demonstrative offices, imbalance of academic expectations and family responsibilities. last but not the least is low research profiles and citations of women academicians in higher education. We substantiate Smith's (1987) argument that institutional ruling texts shape the realities of both men and women and reinforce the interests and values of those who operate the academic institutions—primarily men—while women remain marginalized in the process. We suggest improving the research productivity of women academicians by establishing dedicated mentoring and networking to provide tailored support, guidance, and resources to help women navigate academic challenges, develop research skills, and expand their professional networks.